Preposition: 对于 (regarding)
对于
Use 对于 to introduce topics and frame discussions in formal Chinese
Place 对于 before the topic or subject you want to comment on. It introduces a frame for the discussion. Often combined with 来说 when emphasizing perspective ("for someone / regarding something").
对于 is more formal and topic-focused than 对. While 对 often marks the target of an action, 对于 sets the stage by introducing a topic for discussion. 对于 phrases are usually placed at the beginning of a sentence.
Lesson Targets
Podcast
Podcast: Preposition: 对于 (regarding) (对于)
Listen to Jason & Amy explain the 对于 pattern
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Understanding 对于
The preposition 对于 (duìyú) means "regarding," "with regard to," or "as for." It is a framing device — it tells the listener what topic you are about to discuss before you make your main point. Think of it as a spotlight: 对于 shines a light on the topic, and then the rest of the sentence delivers the commentary. When you say 对于这个问题，我们还得认真讨论, you first establish the topic (this problem) and then state what should be done (we need to discuss it seriously). The pattern 对于……来说 adds a perspective — "for someone" or "from the standpoint of something." For example, 对于任何一种语言来说 means "for any language." 对于 is more formal than 对 and is common in academic writing, news, and speeches. Mastering it will elevate your Chinese from conversational to intellectual.
Key Points
- 对于 (duìyú) = "regarding / with regard to / as for" — introduces a topic.
- 对于……来说 = "for… / from the perspective of…" — adds a viewpoint.
- 对于 phrases typically come at the beginning of a sentence.
- 对于 is more formal than 对; in casual speech, 对 often replaces 对于.
- 对于 introduces topics for commentary; it does not mark the object of an action directly.
- Common in essays, reports, and formal discussions.
In Chinese academic and professional writing, 对于 is a staple. It mirrors the Western rhetorical move of "With regard to X…" or "As for X…" and is essential for structuring arguments in essays and presentations.
Key Vocabulary
Example Sentences
对于任何一种语言来说，文字的出现都是十分重要的。
For any language, the emergence of a writing system is extremely important.
对于美术和音乐，她很有研究。
Regarding art and music, she has done a lot of research.
对于这个问题，我们还得认真讨论。
Regarding this problem, we still need to discuss it seriously.
对于外国人来说，学中文最难的是声调。
For foreigners, the hardest part of learning Chinese is the tones.
对于这次比赛的结果，大家都很满意。
Regarding the results of this competition, everyone is very satisfied.
对于孩子来说，游戏是最好的学习方式。
For children, play is the best way to learn.
Common Mistakes
对于 introduces a topic for discussion, not the target of an action like "said to me." Use 对 when marking the object of a verb.
对于 needs a complete sentence after the topic phrase. It introduces a frame, not a simple description.
The main clause needs a clear subject. "For me, it's good" requires specifying what is good.
Practice Exercises
Tips & Tricks
Think of 对于 as a topic-setter: it announces what you are about to discuss, like a headline before a paragraph.
When writing essays, start paragraphs with 对于 to introduce each new topic — it creates clear structure.
Remember: 对于 = topic framing, 对 = target of action. Do not confuse them.
The pattern 对于……来说 is extremely useful for comparisons: 对于中国人来说…… 对于外国人来说……
Homework
Write five sentences using 对于 to introduce different topics (education, health, technology, culture, language learning). Include at least two sentences with the 对于……来说 pattern.